Trial Magazine

Lisa Griffey, a probation officer for the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC), suffered repeated racial harassment on the job, including being called “mammy” and the “black one.” When her situation worsened, her husband, Cedric Griffey—who also worked for the MDOC as a deputy warden—reported the situation to an administrator.

Lisa later sued the MDOC, alleging racial harassment. After the lawsuit was publicized, Cedric was brought up on false charges. Although he had a 30-year career at the MDOC and an unblemished record, Cedric, 58, was disciplined and forced to quit his job. He now works as a security guard earning less than his former $100,000 MDOC annual salary.

The Griffeys sued the MDOC, alleging state law claims for disparate treatment, retaliation, and hostile work environment. The plaintiffs asserted that the defendant’s administrators had sent a copy of Lisa’s lawsuit to Cedric’s warden as part of a plan to fire Cedric in retaliation for his wife’s case.

The jury awarded more than $11.38 million.

Citation: Griffey v. Mich. Dep’t of Corr., No. 17-108535-CD (Mich. Cir. Ct. Genesee Cnty. Sept. 9, 2019).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ member Jonathan R. Marko, St. Claire Shores, Mich.